The United States proposes a single railway route from India to Europe. I propose creating four routes instead. While the U.S. route passes through seas, I suggest a land-based alternative. .

Introduction:

In a world where rapid transportation, cross-border trade, and regional cooperation are key to prosperity, the United States proposes a railway route from India to Europe that passes through ports and maritime paths. However, a bold and innovative alternative emerges from the Middle East: a converging land-based railway network connecting India to Europe via Yemen, Persia (Iran), Egypt, and Israel — and from there northward to Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, and Greece.

This proposal is not merely about transportation — it is a political and economic vision, combining regional interests with vast potential for cooperation, peace, and prosperity.

Network Structure: Four Converging Routes

  1. Yemen – Saudi Arabia – Jordan – Israel Route A southern connection from India via the Arabian Sea to the port of Aden. A railway from Yemen northward through Saudi Arabia and Jordan to Israel.

  2. Persia – Iraq – Jordan – Israel Route An eastern connection from India to the port of Chabahar in Iran. A railway through Iraq and Jordan to Israel.

  3. Egypt – Israel Route A short western connection via Suez and Taba to Israel.

  4. Northern Railway: Israel – Lebanon – Syria – Turkey – Greece – Europe A central railway from Israel northward, connecting to the existing European rail network.

📌 Important Note: The first three routes converge in Israel, from which a single railway continues northward. This reduces infrastructure costs and ensures efficient and rapid connection to Europe.

📌 Important Note: Based on lessons from the construction of the Channel Tunnel, this proposed project may not only be cheaper but also faster to build — and thus yield benefits more quickly.

Political Advantages

  • Regional Cooperation: Each country contributes its segment, strengthening mutual interests.

  • Promotion of Regional Peace: The project requires collaboration between formerly hostile nations — a historic opportunity for reconciliation.

  • Israel’s Strategic Role: Becoming a transportation hub between Asia and Europe will enhance Israel’s economy and geopolitical standing.

Diplomatic Call: Regional Peace as a Prerequisite for Realizing the Vision

To realize this vision, a diplomatic breakthrough is needed. Israel can lead a historic initiative:

  • A peace proposal to the Palestinians — including political concessions as part of a comprehensive agreement.

  • Peace agreements with Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Persia — as part of a regional accord, in exchange for cooperation in the transportation project.

This vision is not just about infrastructure — it is a call for a different future: an era of peace, prosperity, and regional collaboration.

Summary

The proposed land railway from India to Europe via Israel is much more than a track — it is a bridge between peoples, economies, and worlds. This project could transform the region, promote peace, and connect the Middle East to global trade arteries.

The choice is ours: to remain on the margins of the map — or become its central axis.

📌 India can connect to the axis via Persia or Yemen:

India → Yemen:

Advantages:

  • Geographic proximity: Southern India is relatively close to Yemen via the Arabian Sea.

  • Short maritime link: Mumbai Port → Aden Port ≈ 2,000 km by sea.

  • Yemen can serve as the southern gateway to the Arabian Peninsula.

Disadvantages:

  • Weak infrastructure in Yemen.

  • Low political stability.

India → Persia (Iran):

Advantages:

  • Existing ties between India and Iran (Chabahar Port).

  • More developed railway infrastructure.

  • Direct land connection via Iraq and Jordan.

Disadvantages:

  • Dependence on regional political actors.

  • Need for coordination with Iran and Iraq.

🧭 Conclusion: Strategic Flexibility India can choose its connection point based on:

  • Political conditions: Who it has good relations with.

  • Economic conditions: Where the costs are lower.

  • Geographic conditions: Where the route is shorter.